AN American film maker has swapped Hollywood for Eccles, and his dream of becoming a property developer.

Geoffrey Klein, the man behind a collection of blockbusters including, The Truman Show, James Bond, Legally Blonde and Sleepy Hollow is now the proud owner of the £4.2 million Crown Theatre in Eccles.

The 33-year-old former production developer for Paramount is fulfiling his passion of becoming a property developer right here in Salford, by transforming the 100-year-old theatre into plush apartments.

The dad-of-one has just bought the Liverpool Road location, he is hoping will be part of the city's regeneration programme.

Geoffrey said: "Salford has a lot of potential. It is a real growth area. Manchester is over-saturated as far as property development is concerned but this city is just right.

"I think the people of the area are fond to maintain a part of their history through the Crown, so I am keen to see the old theatre still gracing Liverpool Street.

"As apartments, it will bring young professionals into the city and aid the growth of a promising area."

Geoffrey, who now lives in Prestwich, moved to England for love, after falling for a Mancunian, Nita, now Mrs Klein.

Keen to be part of Salford's rebirth, Geoffrey has just finished the development of the old Overseas office on Liverpool Road into 82 apartments at £115,000 each.

Building work is scheduled to start on the Crown in April 2006 with a completion date 18 months later.

The 39 apartments will be targeted at young professional buyers. With the one-bedded flats estimated at £78,000 to £150,000.

Phil Woolas, government minister for regeneration, met with the American millionaire on Liverpool Road to discuss the area's future.